Oyster Worms

Oyster Worms

Description

What is an Oyster Worm?

Along the coast, oyster worms are a best kept secret of many saltwater anglers. Ask anyone who has ever harvested oysters and they will tell you at certain times of the year these things are everywhere. When they are present so are the redfish and trout.

But what are they really?

Oyster worms (bristle worms, clam worms, sand worms, mud worms, and many other names) have soft, segmented bodies with tiny, hair-like bristles along each side. The bristles are attached to appendages called parapodia. Each body segment has one pair of parapodia, which vary in shape depending on the species. Most worms have a head with eyes, antennae and sensory palps.

Did You Know?

Oyster worms are related to leeches and earthworms.They are also known as polychaetes. The class name polychaeta means “many hairs,” referring to the worms’ numerous bristles.Many bristle worms break apart easily when handled. They are able to regenerate the lost or damaged parts.